What Does a Basin Waste Trap Do?
A basin waste trap sits beneath your sink and does two jobs. It holds a small seal of water that stops drain odours rising into the bathroom, and it connects your basin waste to the waste pipe. Whether you are replacing a leaking trap or fitting a new basin, the right trap depends on how much of the pipework will be on show.
Bottle Traps for Visible Pipework
Bottle traps are the most popular choice under pedestal, wall-hung and countertop basins where the pipework can be seen. Their compact body looks neater than a standard trap, and many come with an extension tube so you can adjust the height to meet your waste pipe. Round, square and minimalist shapes let you match the trap to the style of your basin and tap.
Plastic Traps for Hidden Pipework
If the trap will sit inside a vanity unit or behind a pedestal, a plastic trap is usually all you need. Bottle traps, straight-through traps and telescopic P traps are all common options. A telescopic or adjustable trap gives you extra flexibility when the waste pipe is not perfectly lined up with the basin outlet.
Traps for Furniture Basins
Vanity units and furniture basins often leave less room underneath, so a compact trap designed for tight spaces makes fitting easier. Measure the depth inside the unit and check the position of drawers or shelves before you choose.
Finishes to Match Your Bathroom
When the trap is on show, its finish matters as much as the tap's. Chrome is the easiest to coordinate, while brushed brass and matt black suit warmer, contemporary schemes. Choosing the trap in the same finish as your tap and basin waste keeps the whole basin area looking consistent.
Check the Size Before You Buy
Most UK basins use a 1¼" (32mm) waste outlet. Check the outlet size, the distance between the basin outlet and the waste pipe, and whether you need an extension tube. Each product page lists its dimensions so you can compare it with your space.
Working on the Bath Too?
Baths use a different, larger connection. If you are updating the bath as well, see our bath waste traps.
Part of our waste and traps range.
